High-Performance Wellness Solutions

In the latest episode of the Priority Traffic Podcast, we have the privilege of hearing from Deborah Green, a former military police officer and law enforcement dispatcher. Deborah shares her powerful story of resilience and recovery, shedding light on the critical issue of mental health support for first responders.

A Journey Through Trauma and Perseverance

Deborah’s journey takes us through her experiences during the LA riots in 1992, where she witnessed firsthand the lack of preparation and support for the traumatic events she faced as a military police officer. She discusses the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field and the intimidation tactics used by gangs during the riots.

As Deborah transitioned to the Sacramento Police Department, she faced new obstacles in the early stages of her career. However, her perseverance and dedication to serving her community kept her pushing forward.

The Importance of Mental Health Support

Throughout the episode, Deborah emphasizes the crucial need for addressing mental health in professions like law enforcement and the military, where exposure to trauma is frequent. She opens up about her own health scare and the discovery of a heart condition that required surgery, which led to her experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Deborah’s story highlights the emotional toll that working as a 911 dispatcher can take on one’s mental well-being. She recounts a particularly difficult incident where an officer was killed and the overwhelming emotions she experienced during that time. The lack of support from her department and the challenges she faced in seeking help for her mental health underscore the need for systemic change in how mental health is approached and supported in law enforcement and first responder communities.

Advocating for Change

Deborah’s advocacy for better mental health care for first responders is a central theme throughout the episode. She stresses the importance of seeking therapy and taking care of one’s mental well-being, especially in high-stress professions. Deborah also discusses the 911 SAVES Act and the need for better recognition and support for dispatchers at the federal level.

This episode of the Priority Traffic Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by first responders and the critical importance of mental health support in these professions. Deborah Green’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the power of advocating for change.

Don’t miss this insightful and moving conversation. Listen to Episode 039 of the Priority Traffic Podcast now and join the discussion on how we can better support the mental health of our first responders.

Connect w/ Deborah on LinkedIn